USPTO Patents Application 09803257

UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE

CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION

PATENT NO.
APPLICATION NO.
DATED
INVENTOR(S)

7,194,072 B2
09/803257
March 20, 2007
Gamble

Page 1 of 33

It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent is
hereby corrected as shown below:

The title page showing an illustrative figure, should be deleted and substitute therefore
the attached title page

Delete drawing sheets 1 through 12 and substitute therefore the drawing sheets 1-17 as
attached

Please delete column 1 line 1 through column 26 line 57 and insert column 1 line 1
through column 28 line 46, as attached

Signed and Sealed this

Sixth Day of May, 2008

JON W. DUD AS
Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office

Page 2 of 33

(12) United States Patent

Gamble

(10) Patent No.: US 7,194,072 B2
(45) Date of Patent: Mar. 20, 2007

(54) METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REMOTELY
ACCESSING AxND CONTROLLING REMOTE
DEVICES

(76) Inventor: Oliver Gamble. 436 E 75*^ St,
New YoricNY(US) 10021

(*) Notice: Subject to any disckimer, die tnm of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
VS£. 154(b) by 354 days.

(21) Appl. No.: 09/803,257

(22) FOed: Mflr.9, Z(»l

(65) Prior jPnbHcatfon Data

US 2002^)041667 Al Apr. 11. 2002

Rfiteted U^, AppHcatioD Data

(63) <k)ntiau8tionrm-part of aj^licatioa No. 09/552,711.
filed on Apr. 19. 2000, now Pat. No. 7,068,776.

(60) Provisional application No, 60/263,506, filed on Jan.
24. 2001.

(51) IntCL

BOm 11/08 (2006.01)

(52) UJS.CI. 379/102JJ3; 340^25.69;

455/403; 713/168

(58) Field of Clas»lficatl<m Search 379/563,

379/102.01-102.09, 379-382, 29,03. 29.04.
379/106.05. 106.08. 93.27. 93.18. 93.05;

455/419.403,414
See application file for conqilcte search history.

(56) References Cited

US. PAIHNT DCXnJMENTS

5^51,720 A ♦ 9/1991 Kittinits«ietOTn ..... 34(W10.12

5,761,280 A • 6/1998 Nowicnelal 379/93.27

5^15,026 A ♦ 6/1999 Maafcovitc 713/168

5,974,449 A ♦ 10/1999 ChacgctiU 709/206

6.044.278 A • 3/2000 Qotortal 455/422.1

6,144,848 A * ll/IWXW WJshctal 455/419

6,167^1 A ♦ 12/2000 Social 455/406

FORHON PATENT DOCUMENTS
JP 410126494 * 5/1998

« cited by examiner

Primary JExamwter— Gerald CSauthicr

(57) ABSriRACT

A method and system for enabling users to remotely activate
a device using a router. The router may be accessed by
COTmunication over one or nKure netwwks including, but
not limited to. the internet, wireless networlcs, cable net-
woiks, etc. A user accesses an emitter of tJ« user's router
and, usmg transmitted DTMF tones, controls the device.

53 Claims, 17 Drewlx^ Sheets

Page 3 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 1 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Page 4 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 2 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Page 5 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 3 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Page 6 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 4 of 17 7,194,072 B2

322\

(A) (B)

FIGURE 3 A

(F)

Page 7 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 5 of 17 7,194,072 B2

(A) (B)

FIGURE 3B

Isolate Phone

329

L-Flag=l

333

StoieDTMFIn
Memory

(A) (B)

Store DTMF In
MettK>iy

No

(Q (D)

(E)

Page 8 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 6 of 17 7,194,072 B2

(A)

4P)

345

Dial Access Number For
Discount Supplier

350.

\

Provide Access Code If
Required

35S

Dial Telephone Number
Entered By Us«^

ML

I

Release Relays

365 1

Monitor For Ei^ Of
Outgoing Call

370^

r

Yes

Provide Access [/
Code If Reqwied

FIGURE 3C

Page 9 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 7 of 17 1,194 fill B2

408

Trigger Relays
Number 2 & 3

410

Cbec^ For DTMF
Fxom Phone

412

414
416

418

Store DTMF Digit To
Memory

Check DTMF Digit
Value and PostticHi

CaU-Type = *^"

1

FIGURE 4A

#3

#1

#2 #4

U.S. Patent

# 3

Page 10 of 33

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 8 of 17 7,194,072 B2

FIGURE 4B
#1 #2 «4

No

422

No

Call-Type = "J'

424

If

^

Intemadonal
^^•v,^^^ Call

Yes

426

Call-Type ="2"

^

#3

# 1

#2 #4

Page 11 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 9 of 17 7,194,072 B2

FIGURE 4C

#3
▲

#1

428

#2

#4

i*

430

432

Release Relays 1, 2, 3

I

TWO

434 ^ \ Yes

If ^

Off Hook

Yes

Page 12 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 10 of 17 7,194,072 B2

nGllR£4D

A B

Yes

44S Micro Processor Will Dial
lotenutional Access Code
Then The Dial Phone Number

u

Release Relays 1,2,3

<

450'

Page 13 of 33

U.S. Patent

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 11 of 17 7,194,072 B2

i

E

S <

So

:5

:5

< o
5 u.

— 5J

;5

Page 14 of 33

U.S. Patent

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 12 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Store lyTMF

Ccd« Jnfbrmaton

Mo

^55 1

1

Bend Code for

Selected Channel

Send CocSe for
Start ltecor<J^ng

De-AcUvate

Enee Stored
DTMF Infbfmation

J

.660

.665

^670

Page 15 of 33

U.S. Patent

FigoreTA

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 13 of 17 7494,072 B2

700

703

Start

CentmiSit&CoUect
and Safve To Memoty
Incoming Messages

710

Central Site Process
M^age For Valid
Customer Id and
Instructions

703

ItK:oming Messages
From ARemote

y^l iTerminal

^ (Internet accessing

i device, friione

^ (wire/wireles$), fax»
etc)

Central Site Retrieves
Customer Infonnation For
Contmliing A VCR At A
Remote Location

Central Site Prepares A
Transmission Containing
Both An Access Code And
Instructions For Controlling
A Targeted VCR At A
Remote Location

Central Site Detennines
When To Transmit The
Prepare Transmission To
The Remote Location

▼

(A)

Page 16 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 14 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Figure 7B

lA)

Central Site Transmits The
Prepared Tcansmisaon To
A EA-Router Locitod At
The Remote Location

I,

EA-Router At The Remote
Location Checb The
Tfansroission For A Valid
Access Code

Page 17 of 33

U.S. Patent

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 15 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Figures

o

f

A

step!

200

Steps

VCR

Televisio

Central Site

fostructions For Controlling A VCR

Page 18 of 33

U.S. Patent Mar. 20, 2007 sheet 16 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Figure 9

PHONE BOOTH

.Wire Connecting EA-Router To VCR
Instnictions Fw Coatiollii^ A VCR WUI
Tiavd Over The Wine To From EA-Router

Page 19 of 33

U.S. Patent

Mar. 20, 2007 Sheet 17 of 17 7,194,072 B2

Figure 10

o

A

Stepi

200

"V

Steps

□

Internet Accessing Device

Slep2

vr.R

Televisio

0

o

Central Site

.Transmission Of Instruction To VCR In Audio,
' Infiared, Ulta-Violet, RF» Electrical Signals,
Blitt Toofli Tecluiology From EA-Router

Page 20 of 33

US 7,

1

METHOD ANP SYSTJ^ FOR REMOTELY
ACO^ING AND CONTROLLING REMOTE

This i$ 3 conti&uati(H^irt>part of ^Iicati<m $er. No.
09/552.711, filed Apr 19, 2000. now XJS, Pat. No. 7.068,

776.

I claim tbe phority of provisional patent application
60/263,506, filed on Jan, 24,2001; this plication is incor-
porated hy rc^tssacc in it esitirdy.

HELD OFTOB INVBNUON

tlie present invenlion relates geoetally to a mediod and
system for accessing and oontioUing devices via remote
conttDl over cammnnicadiQn syslems, and more paiticulazty
to a Q}^hod and syst^ fbr controtiing SEtedia lecoa-ding
using the tele|^ne» internet or cahle.

BACKGROUND OF IHE INVENTION

Ottm, individuals wisti to vtfiw a pjogrmnwl^
useis to set a media recorder to recoid tbe desired prc^ram
or to contact another person ^ record the program on a
user's bdsalf. The result b that viewers may miss out on
programs that ttey would Ufee to see because tey lack the
time to actually view the program, did not act their recorder
to record tbc program, oar conld not get another person to
record tiie program for them.

Vsiious methods and systems exist for the recording of
media, be it medfia in ^ form of convaationa! tdiewsion,
cable, imemet or sate^, lh& media can be recorded <m
tapes (e.g.^ VCR), digital storage sit on top boxes (e.g., tSV^}
aM hard disk or compact disis: storage sysiem. ifUiereisno
method of communicating wiUi the i^orage device via
remote access, th^ th^ is a lade of opportune to record
intaresting media if nser is away fiom the reccodii:^ devi^

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

the present invention allows users to remotdy set their
media recording devices foprognuns that diey want to see,
event tf m one is in tii^ same location as the reoordii^
device. Ttiis is accos^Hshed by accessixig an enhanced
automatic router unit is in oammmiicaticm with any
device tot may recognize an incoming call (e.g,, answering
madbdi^ modified caller ID box, etc).

The present invention is part of a system/tnethod ttsat
allows users to contact a central site and leave in^nK:1ions
for their media recording device. In one embodiment, use^
may be signed purchasers of registered remote units.

The remote user can contact the ccsitrai site via any
Interne* accessing device, pbtm (wire/wireless), hx, etc
Hk; user may ttei supply roquet infonnatoi to osable
the central site to access ^[ul set ttie user^s recording device.
The enhanced automatic router (EA router) may be attached
to a modified Caller ID Bm, a phone line with a mndard
answering machine, a ccmiR2ter» a cable line, etc> The media
recording device can be one of a variety of mecUa storage
devices inchtding, but not limited to, tape (e.g^ VCR),
digital (e.g., TiVoX laser (write-able conq^ disic), etc.

BRIEF DBSCRBraON OF THE DRAWINGS

HG. 1 illustrates a system according to onembodiment
o f the current invention.

>4,072 B2

2

FIG. 2iihistratesor»e embodimemof the router used in the
syslem shown m ¥S3, 1.

FIG. 2A illustrates another embodhnent of the router (EA
router) used tn die system shown in FIG. 1.
5 BGS.SA and 3B are fiowcharts showing telephone line
monitoring, discount call detection and call completion
patocesses performed by the router shown in HG. 2.

FIGS. 4A and 4B axe fiowchaits showing an alternate
embodiment of the tclqphoM line monitoring, discount call
to detection and call completion process performed by the
rmmsisowttittFlO. 2.

FIG. 5 is a diart ilhitoting the various s^^ials detected
by die astomatic nmter shown in FIG. 2 as it monitors the
I^hone line fbr activity.
1^ FIG. 6 H a fiowchart ^wing the medb recording access
and control processes pcrtoned by the EA router shown in

m 2A.

FIG. 7, item 703: hqnitted instructions ftom a variety of
remote ispvH tominals,
20 Fia % item 705: The Central Site can stores information,
until it is ready to act on it.

FJG. 7, item 710: The Central Site processes rocdved
tnfimnation and validates die user*s identity,
FKJ. 7, item 715: If vaii4 &e user's EA router access
^ co^,arai model number information are retrieved fiom the

user's record.

FIG. 7, item 720: If vaHd, the user's EA router access
code, aiMi model number information are retrieved fiom the
u^*8 record.

FIG. 7, item 725: This information is used to gcnmte a
numeric shing that aotoodes the command insoructions timt
are require to eiecmate fixe recording.

FIG. 7, item 725; The central site validates die uscr*s
3j Ider^ and coHects ixifimnation retarding the pi^

user wants to record: day of reocnding, time of the recording*
channel fiom which to record the program. The central site
then gCT^tf^ a string of DTMF tones that encodes the
user*s access code, channel fiom which the recording is to
be made, the comnjands to activate the VCR, the commands
i&>t rewinding dse tape, and the commands fbr start record-
ing.

FK>. 7, item 730: The central site se^ d^ co<te out
aiQrwhere fiom 5 to 10 nnnutes betbre ^ desired recording

45 time. This reduces the size and ansountofcodizig required to
be sent hi ax^ther mbodinKnt, the string of DTMF tones
sent to ti» EA nmter 120A contaisks coding intimation &r
sdectit^ date and time. In other embo<3yanent8, the cei^l
site may allow intemction with the user's device directly.

50 HG. 7, items 735 & 740 : String of DTMF tones may be
transmitted to die BA router 120A. The position and tength
of each compon^ of &e encoded iostructions to the record-
ing device is pEeset, allowing t2» EA muter 120A to easily
convert die central site transmitted data string into an access

S5 code, instnK:ticms codes that mimic the recordizi^ device
remote contml unit, and a tenxunation dag.

FIG- 7, item 745: The oaitral site generates a string of
DIMF tones diat encodes this tntrmation as shown above,
hi one embodiment die registered EA router's access code is

60 attactod to die beginning of the encoded infonnadoru and
the end of data fiag (#)isattadiGd to the endof thceocoded
infbnnatioiL The access code allows die EA nntter I20A to
determine if the ca^^ured string of DTMF-tones should be
axsciptcd. The end of data flag tdls die EA router 120A whai

tfs die end ofthe string ofDTMF tones is reached, and diat it
can now be^ to process die string into code signals Ukat
vAR mimic a roDoote control unit.

Page 21 of 33

US 7.194,072 B2

3

FIG. 7, item 745: Once fte siring of digits is coavoied ably and may inchide flie otfiOi user intcrfaoe devices listed
into valid code signal that the reconling device recognizes. abtwe, as wdlaa tliose that are not listed herein, that utilize
the instraction codes are transmitted to the recoiding device. telqjhony services to eflfectuate connniinication over net-
The transmission mode may be in the fbnn of inftarcd light woik tOO. It ^uld be noted that the difiference between user
impolses generated fay the in&ared diode/transmitter 5 interface devices 110 and 110' is the devices* connection
attached to the EK nmfc» 120A (FIG. 2A) and xecdved by with automatic router 120 whidi is described in detail below
flie reconling device infiaied detector. fj.e., 1 10' denotes that the device is connected to router 120,
(As shown on attached FIGS. 7A& 7B) while UO has no such router 120 connected to it),
faFI0.8,thercisaas€r(Stepl)oonliacdngaCcntrBlSite As shown in FIG. 1, user intexfeoe devices or telephoi^s
(Step 3) via a communication network (Step 2). Tlffi Central lo 110 aal lltf are connected to a netwoifc 100. Net«'ork 100
Site will accept iiqnitted instraction in the form of DTMF in (me embodiment is a public switched telephone network
tones transmitted over a communjcation i^twodc the Ceo- (PSTO). In an alternate embodiment, networic 100 may be
tral Site will process and store Ow data at tte Central Site die internet, world wide web or any netwcric capable of
(Step4),HieCentralSitewillthenfbrwardtheprocessiniwt efiechiating long distance telephony communicatioos
fiom die user to a remote location (Bkstratioo l.iten 200) is betweeamers.Ilienetwoikenablesanyoneoftheinterfece
over a conummication network (Step 5 and Step d). At die user devices 110 and/or UO' to be in conmmnication with
Remote location the EA-Ro\to (AKA Device at Ronote Boay of die other user interfece devices UO and/or 110*.
location) will accept and evahiate the information ftom die As shown in FIG, 1, some of the intcrikcc user devices
Central Site. If a valid audiorization code is detected, die 110 are connected to an autosnatic router 120 which may be
EA-Router will Ibrward (he Instructions flom the Coitral 20 situated between die tel^ihone 110 and the port (i.e., wall
Site to the targeted appliance (VCR) by hi&ared signals. socket) into which tl^ telephone 110 is phigged. As will be
(As sltown on attached FIG. 8) described below widi reference to FIOS. 3-5, router 120
InFIG.9,thereisausa(Stq)l)contrH<aingaC;cntralSfte enables users having such device to automatically make
(Step 3) via a communication net^-oik (Step 2). Ihe Ontral discount tdq;flme calls (or tdephone calls). It should be
Site wiU accept inputted inmuaion in die form of DIMF 25 noted tiat «diile tele^Ksie UO and automatic routar 120 are
tones transmitted over a communication nctu'oik. The Ceo- stewn as two separate devices, router 120 m^ be attached
tral Site will process aiKl store die data at the (Central Site to, located within, or ottewise in communication widi
(St€p4).HicCcntralSitewiUfhOTfbrwardtheprocessinput telephone UO. Finally, ahhoi^ users seeking to utilize
fiom the user to a remote location (IlhistiBtion 2, item 200) discount bng distance services are typically residential or
over a communicatiott network (Step 5 and Step 6). Atlhe ^ non-commeicial users, die scope of the system and m^hod
Remote location die EA-Router (AKA Device at Remote described herdn arc not limited to such use. Thus, the
location) will aoxpL and evahiate dw information fiom d» mediod and syto described herein may include residential
Central Site. If a valid aufliorization code is detected die telephoiw uses as well as commercial tdqplione users.
EA-Router will forward die fiistrttttions from the Central Fmally, it shouM be noted diat die mediod and system
Site by transmitting electrical signals over a wire (Urecdy to descnTwd haein enable users to recognize discounts when
the targeted appliance (VC3l)« placing poteaatial discount calls. Disoounl calls arc defined as
(As shown on attached HO. 9) tong distance or international calls, and, in some cases, local
FIG. 10, there is a user (Step 1) contracting a Cemnd calls. Because tong distance caniffs offer local telephone
Site (Step 3) via a communication network (Step 2). The service, and vice versa, a discount telqtaie service pjo-
Cential Site will accqjt iiqnitted instruction in the fbnn of vider may oflfer discounted service for mtemational service
DTMF tones transmitted over a communication networic. calls, tong di^ance calls, k)cal calls, w airsr combmation of
The Central Site will process and store die data at the Ccaitral *«se can types-
Site (Step 4). The Central Site will difli forward ti» process Automatic Router

mputfixim die user to a remote b<^^ HG. 2 illustrates oncembodimentofdie router 120 used

200)ovcracommumcat^nnetwoik(^^^ in die system shown in FIG. 1. Hie main components of the

automi^call renter 120 area sensor amy 122, relays 130,

toc^n) wdl accei^ and e^hwte die mfonna^ Jtoi (containing a miwoprecessing unit, EEPROM,

Ko^^'w.^Z^l'^^S^^ ckJandRAM™ory),DTl^S

EA.Router wdl fonvard die Insfruttwrn fiom die (^ntol . ^ ^ ^ 126. a 2 kiloohm@5

SffiS^^2lH^^7andaW

Ultra- Violet, RF. Electncal Signals, or Bh» Ibodi Tbdbnol* ^^i^amatic routa 120 may be interposed between and in

°8y- ^ ccanmunication widt dte telephone or user interface device

(As shown on attached HG, 10) ^ ^ network as shown in HGS. 1 and 1

DETAn^ DESCRiraON ^ j22-l. an answeiA)jBrhook sensor 122-2,

and a dme out sensor 122-3. These sensors will be tenned

System of the invention the RJLT. for ringing, answering incoming call/off hook

FIG. I shows one embodiment of a system incorporating status of pkaie, and toe out.

die present invention. In diis embodimem, die system eo Tte ringing sensor 122-1 conges an alternating current

inchides telqjhones or user interlkce devices UO and 110*. optoisolatcH' coupler. Tlie ooi^ier may be attached to the

Although the interlkce user device, in one embodimoit, is a i^one line by a reverse &cing diode, aUowiog only negaUve

telephone, in an alternate onbodiment, user inter&ce current to flow through die diode and the trigger* of die

devices UO axKl UO* my be a &csimiiei computer, online coupler. Ringing is a process diat empbys bodi posidve and

access device, voice response unit or die like. It slwuld be m negative moving current The reverse fecmg diode allows

noted diat alttumgh references arc inadchacin to telephone only die negative cumait to reach the coiq)ler. The light

and user interface devices, these terms are used interchange- emitt^e diode inside the coupler, in one embodiment.

Page 22 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

5 ^

activates a photo-tranristor. Hk photo-tmnsijtor aUows cw- the tdejtome line. Althou^ detection of ftc munber "l" as
rmt to flow through it to a pin on the mictoprocessor. The ttie &st DIMF position activates relay 3 {130-3) and
microprocessor detects the cnnent as a Ugli signal, indicat- deactivaies rday 1 (130-1) in die present onbodiaent,
ing r inging of the phone. different munbols) and/or <fi&rent DTMF positionCs) may

Hie answering/offhoolc sensor 122-2, comprises an ato- ) activate relay 3 (i30-3) and deactivates relay 1 (130-1).
nating current optoisolator coiqtlen tbe coupler is altadied Oncerei^ 130-3 is triggered and relay 130-1 is deactivated,
to the pbone line by a forward &cing diode, allowinganJy fljepliotte 110 is isolated, and tte [bone line is seen as bang
positive cttirent to flow throi^ the diode and trigger the busy to the outside world.

coupler. When die jionc 110 is off the hook, cmreBt flows activates die third relay 130-3 may also

tough the phone line to tte coupla. Tbe light eoritting lo gjtjyaje optdsolator. This «qjloisolator provides power
diode inside tbe coupler activates a photo-tianastor. Tbe ogtM to allow die phone 110 to continue fbnctioniog.
photo-transistor allows current to flow through it to a pin on whoiitlay 3 (130-3) is activated, 2 kilo-ohm resistor which
be microiHDcessoK Tbe microprocesscB' detects the cuirait jg competed across (be incoming line fiomfte wall enables
as a high signal, indicating tte offhook status of die i*one: jjj^ to emulate that flte phone llOisbu^. hxone
The time-out sensor 12^3, in one embodiment, is com- is embodiment, die relays 130 used are part # G6E-1 34P-ST-
prised of an alternating current optoisolator coulter and a us-DC5 made by Omron. Of course, odier components
triac. The coupler is attadied to the phone line wifli leads configurations may be used to accon^ilishing such

conungfiomhoththeringandansweringsensoi8.WhenUie contiol ovw die tel^ibone line wiring,
phone 110 is off hook. cu«^ A stamp 124 is employed by router IM and compiises a

hne to the coupUr. Ue li^ mOtmJ^^,^ » PK-Scontrolte ch^ (i^croprocessor). PBasic inter-
coupler activates a jiott^tomsiStor. The pbolo-tansistor l^J^Xaie «« to pro^ die micro-

anows a signal amtnt to Aow jhi^it to a pm on m ^ P EEPROM (ScaDy exa4le progmmnaMe
optoisolator imc The toac isachvatedby Snwiiemoiy),R^(Randoii Access \fenS»y). clock

microprocessor. THe phone hne signal « direct^ to the ^"l^a^ihschiikinatkmandinstiucdanscanbe
relays. Tie nuaopoces«>r sods ? hme Wttwijon 25 !^|^"^tc^entfliese ports are calted pins, and
agn^ to the tmc after U has drteimmed that die pbone UO P^™^ h, either a high ^ low state. TlJe micn,-
is off fte hook to make an oidgomg phone call mstate J^fbe^aSt of t&sor pins to monitor Ow

a^vation prevents die tune^out tensor flcmfld*^^ ^Itaete activity. Tic sensors ^are attached to
^^^^u^^T^^'^X^^^ Spinsontt3t«ontroller.andwhendiesepinsgo

S^tow.ttemicro-conirollerviadieprogramstoieiniu
transistor to die micK>pioc«sor. -fte tmc wiU OMita^ to ^ ^ t,p^. Tbe micro-

pscanem and miump die high pm state untda^ 3a is aMe to detect an acti^ptoTstate by moni-
break ocaus. r«utog m « momently Aop m ajieat (and Jfe^Lected to die "A" ^a/oS h<i)k sen-

vohage) followed by a resumptioa of current (and voltage). ^tC^v, 130 used in the router 120 are attached to
pien^processorsendsasig^toadivatete^^^ » ^^ff^r^ Z^Z^-^Z^^
toe te powa flowing tb^ >s mommutdy hahel ^^^j^^jj^aadifid to which relay 130. and tte
The high s.^ on the tmi<«ut Pjn «s taned offTbs ^^^^ fceScro^xmlioUer when each relay should

^rZa^S^S'S^o?atS b^5oye«niiemi«H»ntroto can activate a spectfifi
once pontgo^tel^Mcaapie absence ofahitfi cm ^jaTZl^Jfl-^

tte pn attached to the tnac mdicates expmrtion of die « gS^iCle pin goes ffi the reiriM is activated,
aiirtted tune. ... u ^ _ and when the pin goes tew die relw 130 is de-activated. In

l^fe^Z^J^^ HicTMiciochip tfedmology (part U 1^57) is used. Of

W nmnherMOC30)0(y^^ also « &r accomplishing^ cmtrola^^

by Optcdcctromcs. Of course, otto conqjoncnts and/or w^^tv

con^uratbns nay be used for acoomplidiing such moni- ^eacovity. .
toriog 11ieCM8880 126 is a amy ffiU^tedOTMFlrai^

Tlietdaysl30usedinonecmbodimcmoftbctouterl20 Tto tomscaver IM m^yte mterlkced^
have both a normal close cijcmtaiid a nomal open dicui^ 50 inicroprocessor to detect and
Hie application of a cuirot to the coil will cause tbe transceiver 126 is atta^ to the "^^^f?
nonaally opra dicuit to close, and the normaUy closed altenato path ted ^ the 1(130.1) and 2
circuit to op^ TlKs defkult state (no power appfied to the i^^^) arc adivatod. By plaang ^e traipcerra m con-
cdl) allows a teIe|rfione call to pass through the automatic nection on the alternate path of the j^oi^lme^iy^
caUiouierl20,Whenacuiremis^liedtothecoiisof!€lay ss ^.^^J^^**^^^*^*?^'^^^^
1 (Rl) 130-1 and iclay 2 (R2) 130.2. an atenate pafli is consists of both forward and badward flowtng (AC) ciwent
opene4oaethatr<yutestbcphonelinetoti»mMFencoder/ at a voltage Icvd that could otherwise damage the trans-
decoder 126. This re-routiiig of the phone line allow the c«*ver 126.

microprocessor to monitor/iead DTTMF tones originatmg Once the micrc^jrocessor detects an outgoing call state, it
jRrom the phone UO.TliemicroptDce8Sor initiates the mom- 60 triggers the rdays 130 that bring transceiver 126 in
taring for DTMP tones whenever it detects an outgomg call contact with tla phone Ifaie. This will enable the transcervw
via the sensors 122. The signal fiom the tmoopsocessor 126 to interpret flie DTMF toMs on the lAone line, and
activating the relay designated leky 2 (130-2) also activates it to tbe microprocessor. Alfliough the cuncm embodiment
an optoisolator Ming the jdione Iii» to a common ground. envoys a CUmO DTMF tiansodver made by California
enabling the microprocessor to read the DTMF digits. The 55 Miao Devices (part H CM8880PI), other compomsMte and/or
micn^srocessor activates &e third relay (R3) 130-3 when it configurations may be used £Im: accomphshing such decod-
ddccts a one ("1 ") as the first DTMF positiott passing down ing and eicoding of DTMF.

Page 23 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

7 8

A standard 9 volt aad a standard 5 volt regulator may be sensor 122-1. This alkm tlxe senses to monitor phone line

mp3oyedasapowersouiae£(wrthemuterX20, TtcS volt activity. In one anbodim«it» phone line which the

stq)p!ymayheusedtopowerthelDlMFtianscdverl2<J.^e sensors aie naonitoiing is connected to reUy 1 {130-0-

relays 130, the sensors 122 to signal the miooprocessor and optoisolator coiqjlcr of fee time-out saisor 122-3 is can-

the stamp i24. The 9 volt source powers the isolated 5 nected to Kclay 1 (130-1). Relay 1 is connected to lelay 2

telephone 110. The 5 volt asd 9 volt r^Eulators used \3y the (130-2), and 2 is connected to fee teiq^Kmc 110 Relay

router 126 may be» in one ea^odimcnt, Japan Radio Com- 3 (130-3) is attadied to the other wire in the line coming in

pany part # NJM7809-FA and NJM7S05-FA, lespectrvely. from the waU and going to the phone 110. In this cmbodi-

Ofcoursc;,<rtlicrcomponentsmayhci^lbrfloconipJishing m«it relay 3 (130-3) is attached to &e green wire. The

such regulation of voltage. to sensors are attad^d to the red wires.

A«f«r«.ti^ itr..rf^. Rcfening to HG. 3* thc stttomatic routCT 120 uscs a scttsor

Mod^ Aromatic Router ^ ^^^^ ^.^^ airay 122 to monitor the telephone Ime for activity (i.e.,

HG. 2Adiscbses automatic roul«f 120A whichhasmany ^ ^^^j^^^ answering an incoming call, or initio

ofthesamBcomponci^as,andlaigcfy fimctionsindkrfy to, outeoingcaH) (steps 305 and 310). In HG. 2 Oie

?!f/.i;^^J^* ^.^"^ embodhnent, the router ^ ain^ m is denoted^ 122-1 (ring), 12^2 (answer/

120A is tl» same as router 120. excei^^ Oiat it can commn- oflThook) ai»l 12^3 (time out)- RA,X

nicate with an external device via Ugjit, clectn<»l signals, ^ (answcring/off hook) sensor 12^2 is connected

fft^^^^J. 2^^^ \^^ x^r ^ to the stamp 124 at a pr^nietemiined pin. While this pin

m&aied hghts signals (by, eg,, infrared mitter 192). or via jcmains in a low state. ^ stamp 124 recognizes that the

aw:ffecom»(togittonucnn»occssorl90msidea recan^ ^ 110 is still on the hooJc (ptoie is inactive), llie

mgdevice. , ^ ^ ^. ^ tesiQjbonc 110 is considered active when it is ringing, bc«^

It snouid be noted tha^ m anoflier «ia)odimcnt, (he imswered,orbdngusedtomalceattomgoing call. When the

fisjctibnality of stamp 124 can be divided into two separate j^j^ ig ^^^^ the pin for te "A** (answer/off hook) sensor

bat Imked miooprocessors. The £A roi^ i20Anu^ be in |22*2 ts high.

conmaunication wife the user's answcnx:^roadune<^ 25 Upon detecting a hidi state on the "A" (answer/off hook)

other remote user internee device accessible by a telecom- the stamp 124 utsliaes software to determine the

mimicatton^fStem, exactnatureofOietfhoneactive state. The stan:^) 124 briefly

fii one enrfxidnncm, the EA router 120A works by mun- poiis^ pins for botli fee "R** (ringing) axu!**A^ (answering)
icking a manufecturer- supplied remote control. This remote ^^^^ mism. A poUmg cydc may vary^ for example, &om
amtrolde>noecan,foreK^ ^ 0.3 to 0.6 seconds. The stan^ 124 monitors the telephone
liglttemittiagdeviceora wiie-aiiachii^theiomerl20Ato line fitr activity that is specific to each of the toee possible
a mic«)|HX>cessor conttolling the external device (e.g., HVb activities (FKj. 5), If tl^ active state is theiesult of a rin^
sit on top box). condition, the alternating (negative and positive flowing)
: one embodmient, fee EA router 120A works by mim- current will appear as only fee bottom portion of HG. 5A.
icking. The intoed emitter 192 (HG. 2A)componemof the 55 jiyg. reverse dw>de allows onfy the native iwrtion of fee
BArouter 1!I^A can mimic the manu£K:ture*s remote conftol nog pattern to be delected. The pattern continues as long as
device code signals. This wiables the user to k«^ in instruct fee phone is ringing, and fee stamp 124 experiences a scries
tions from a remc*c site and have the EA router 120A act as peiiodic hi^ on the **R" (ring) sensor jnn.
their proxy in issmrif instructian to feeir tecordcr. if tij^ active ^te is fee rtsstt of an incoming call bdng
an another onbodiment fee £A router 120A may be 40 answered, the stamp 124 detects a pattern similar to FIG. 5B,
physically connected to fee rec<»ding device by a wire that and the **A" (answer/off hook) sensor 122-2 goes high and
jad3 into bofe units. The EA router stamp 124 (FIG. 2A)., remains h^ m^ fee td€|feone call is ovcj. If the '•A**
may send a scries of electrical xmpolses ttough a connect* (answes/ofifhoold sen^ 122-2 is high because of an out-
ing wire to a micro-controller in fee recordii^ device Tlie goh^ cal^ fee stmp 124 detects a patttan similar to HG.
micro-contr61terl90{e.g.,PJC 16C63 ftomMlciochlp»&c.) 45 5c. As TO. 5C ilhimtes» a brief i»suse in the flow of
in the recording (tevioc (FIG. 2A) converts fee stamp 124 currait ihrcsigh the •*A" (answer/oflf tM>ok) sensor 122-2 is
coznmunicated data Into instnictions^reconllng a demed lecognized.Aft^ the brief pause^tim current wHl resume to
program. Ilus enables the user to key in instructions from a flow and coaitmue to Sow uxstil a tirae out occurs. A time-out
remote site and have the £A router 120A act as a pro;^ in ig defined as a <^n d<ty»n in which the i^ne company has
issmi^ Instruction to thdr recorder, 5a determined that the phos^ 110 has t^oflftlte hook for a
Automatic Routing Process predetermined period of time and no valid phone number

Ibe pmcess of automatic router 120 may be segmented

into feree fimctk>ns: (1 ) monitoiing fee telepbon^H^ ^ ^ ^ ^ "^Sl^

activity;(2)detecdngwhefeerapototialdisStelc^^ cato to please l^^aadtiy^^

callisplaced;and(3)placii^s^callatadiscoui^nite ^^^'^i^*^^]^^

when such rate is avalLblTTliese processes aiedesm^ ^ ^^'^^^/^'^^^^.'^^^^

bdow in detail wife refeicnce to HGS. 3^5 as well as fee ^^^$^'^^'\^'^^'^f^^

components illustrated in FIG, 2. ^) «f?^ ^1" ^^^^ ^^ILS^

^ stams. If a high on fee **R" (ring) sensor 122-1 is detected,

Phone Line Monitoring Process «o a ring-flag is changed dom^X)"* to ^'l**m the soflware. The

The jfeone lines between the wall and feie teleitom 110 stan^^ 124 likewise changes the call-flag torn '*0" to if

may be comprised of tivo wires. In one embo<&nent, the the tdgh on the "A"* (answer/ofifhook) sensor pin is briefly

optoisolator of the "A" (answes/offhook) scosor 122-2 and mtemipted* Ibc stan^ 124 contimies the polling process

^'R" (ringing) sensor 122-1 are arranged in parallel wife the until it no longer detects a bi^on fee ''R*' (rii%) sensor

tel^l^Kme 110 red wire coming fittm the waU sod^ 65 122-1 daring a polHng cycle. Upon detecting a bigh on the

optoisolatoroffeetimeoutsensorl22«3i$an:angedinseries ring sensor; the stamp 124 will restart the polling cycle.

wife *"A" (answer/off hodc) scosor 122-2 and **R" (ringing) Once fee ringing stops* or if no ringing is detected within a

Page 24 of 33

CfiU-Fl«g

An«wer/Off'
Stfttus

I

0

Lav

Fhttoe EtnsGd ^ Hot -

I

Answ<red

0

Aniwer bcMttiag CliU

0

i

OutgDtnaCftB

1

I

Ptwnc is mng

US 7,194,072 B2

9 10

polling Q^k tbe stamp 124 polls the deto^DlMF is thca &mcd ia meanory and the process

seasor 122-2 to detamiac the *'call-feg« status. If the imn»toi«^319(clie(tog fbratime-omaiMlncwim^
c^KBag has a value of**!^ and Bering-flag has 8^ ^igxsd). If fee firet DIMF is equal to 1, the stamp 124.
y.amlthe A" sensor IS high, then the stamp 124 xeoog^ isolates the phcmefiom the outside world (step 327) and sets
mzes that^the call is outgoing. If the riog-flag has a vahie of 3 the I^flag ficsm to "I" (long distance flag to tnie) (step
1 ami the caH-flag has a vali« of and the "A** sensor 329). The stamp 124 returns the pmoess back to stq) 319
IS high, men the stamp 124 recQgnizes fliat the call is an (chectog fbr a time-out and new DTMF signal),
answered incoming call. For a summary, see Ihble 1 below. If thenumber of d^ected/^toied OTMF signals is greater

than one (step 325) and no long distance call is indicated

^^^IM 1 10 (step 336), tte router 120 waits until the pteone is on the

hook (step 375) before monitoring fhe phone line again (step

The preseiTO of a "r in the tet, or in a predetOTiined
positikm of the p&oiK^nuaiber being dialedinforms the router
15 120 that the call is a long distance calL laone embodim^t,
the router 120 wUl be monitonng the first position of the
dialed telephone number. When the router^s micxoproces^r
detects a **P in the first position of the ]tone number bdi^
il^tBliod, the router 120 assumes an active modte. in the active
The stamp 124 considm the '^A^'Canswer/offhoc^) pin ^ ^ ^vates relay 3 (130-3) and de-

going low and xmains low at the compIctioQ of an active ^cti^^ "lay 1 (130-1), effectuating ^ isolation of the
event The stamp 124 resets itself and goes back to polHM telephone 110 0om the outside worid. The internal power
the plK>ne line activity, hi one embodimem, the **A'* 8o«K» needed to keep fee plKsne 110 functicmmg is also
(answ^/offhook) pin goes low and remains low once the hmted on* the phoiHS 110 uses the powa to run its internal
call is completed and the i^ue is placed back on the hook ^ generatcr enabling the caller to dial dicir desired

If an outgoing call is being made» titt router 1^ will number,
dctennincthcoattneof thecaillQrlooking, IbrexaoEmte, fisr *^ BTMF transceiver attadied to the telephone line,
a "r* in the first position of firn ph(me number being dialed, ^ altcmate path created hy relay I (130-1) and relay

The absence of a **ir unless discounted kxal swice is ^ (130*2) ^itivatiou (FBG. 2 between 122-1 and 122-2)»
available, places the router 120 in a passive mode; and c^phnes all <Med BTMF digits and pass them on to the
aD ows the i^e call to occur but not to peitom its routhg miat^aocessor. The teIq?honc numbers dialed by the user
function. The presenice of a** !*• in to first portion of die caittured and Sored in Ibc mkrpjHocessor jRAM

phone number being dialed tri^ers the router 120 into niemory. AVhile the dialed phone number is bets^ c^tured,
performing its specialized fenction (muting the call) as tl^ mkaopn)cessor is periodicafiy monitoring the "T* (time
described more fiilly below. Other scries ofnumbes may be soison Ows di micr&proccssfflr has cajrtured the

used to triggcrrouter 120, For exsmpJe, ^r»u!cr m may number of mMF digits to initiate the can it will

be configured to trigger aO calls beginning wi& *X)1 1*', or all check the first fbur digits. The first fiMir digits will tell the
eleven digit tetqshone nambers beginning with "1" less ^20 if it stould nmie the call to a discount carrier.

1800, 1888, tdUt^aaatt numtxxs and die lik p^ or aH "^Ol I", ^'^^ ^ (fiaied a spedal oumber si^ as 1(888),

or "91" twelve cfegit phone oumberg (usually dialed to gaim K800X 1(900), or 1(600) the touter coding effectuates the
long distance or intemationa] access in setting sudi as (lialins of die "balance** of fte {Aone number tiat die user
office or hotels). altered and then relea^ die lekys 130. Reteasing die relay

T^T«»r«ct,»«./^.nTw«_- ^ « ~ wm reconnect flic tdkqSione IW to the outside world. The

^^f^^^^F^'^ ResponsePKwess tem "balance" wftetolhe conditioD in which a "1" was

^ii^^^JT^ be anflgnred &r «5 dialed befi« fte telqihone was isolated fi^the out^

SS^^&.^i.'^l^i'' ''^^'^f^ "^^^ to oa^ete the call, the router 120 wiU

ro^to^Astance calls win now be desoi^ only have to dial aBthea^ DIMF digits except the flist

; • °"<»'>^o«^«»«8?*1*one call is detected «r. If the caller <fid not dial a specialrfione iniiber, die
♦^t!S?ii L^?'^?^,'^'?™^.'*'''*^ Rwterdialsthe-nKKfify balance oftteiuanber and releases

St^^^l^^i^^^!^^^^. ttenaaysmfc-toSlifybalance-ofthenumS^K
k ^fL^I^^. «f ^ c»s«8 bat tlje call ae condition ia which a -r was ateady dialed before die

fJ^- caj^' monitormg pnxess for an tdqAone was isolated ftom the outside worid. to "modilV

taW^mode. theroiSTmlds tosXomt^^
r IT *M w without ii^uding the stantofi "I" when dialing thecusfomw

deto,W^J$t{S,l^l?°^l-?!^ decoder l26 ss kmg distance number: &r example, 1010-321 1001)123-

'234 would be 010-321 1(201)123-1234; and
til^fSK^ Jlf?H ^^^OO™*"^ ^^^^ « 1(800)7654321 would be 8007654321. If the long distance
^ ^ "i^S^ ^^S' cameriequiies anaccess oode^ Oietouter 120 ^de$ swU

ggandtheprocessrestart8oncethe{*oneisonhook{step code. Tteiouter 120 waS&r the "A" (ansW/bffho^

J*«.»«^*w-«» -« . ^ - « senswr pin to go low and remain low bcfowcoMluding tot

If tuBfcout has wjt oociared, the stamp 134 wffl start the caU is over, and returns to monitoring-ttajphoitelmeftr
comtoig the DIMF signal detected. Wth each detected activity, n should be noted diat (he router 120 may be
UAMh signal, ttecountisadvancedAdeteiminationisthen recOTflgured/^rogrannned aich that any indiwdual or series
step 323 as to wtether the nmnber of DTMF tones of digits andAn- any predetennined positioning of sach digit

(st^ tile stamp 124 advances the system to deter- For example, if die router 120 is being used in an office
mine if the first DIMF is equal to one (s^ 32i9. The building, hotel or some otlier location wbere a "9" is dialed

Page 25 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

11 12

prior to pUcmg outside caa flicroiiter 120 may be act (i.c., and 4B illustrate an aKOTatc i«ocess of eflEbctuating dis-

via a switch access by the user) so that the second positioB count bng distance and icteraational calls,

digit is drtected for the number "1". If in the process of ia step 402, the process is initiated, hi step 406, the router

a^Jturing die long distance tdQ)hoiw number bdng dialed 120 determines iiicdier fee telephone 110 is in an off hook

by die \3set the "T* (time out) sensor 122-3 should go lew 3 condition. If the tekphoM 110 is eiqjcriendng such a

(hidicating tiie can can not be completed), die router's condidon* relays R2 and R3 are triggered togcflwa; isolating

mioTJprocessor releases the relays 130 allowing the user to the tetepicme 110 ftom die outside world. The mCMF

hear die time out message. Ilie microprocessorlhea waits decoder 126 monitors whether DTMF signal arc dcteaed

until the "A** (answer/off hook) sensor 122-2 goes lew ftom the telcjtoie 110 (steps 410 and 412). If DTMF

before reciting the system and mcmitoring the telephone lo sigmals arc detected, they ate stored in memory of the stamp

line &r activity. 124 (step 414).

Retuming to HG. 3. if in stq? 336, a long distance call is hi st^ 4 1 6, ttic DTMF vahie and positions are analyzed

indicated, DTMF tones are stored in memory (step 338) and by the microprocessor. This is done to determine the type o f

a detenninatton is made as to whether aU of the numbers can that is bdng placed. For example, if the first digit is a

have been c^«ured(s^ 342). IfaUofthe numbers have not is "i", a kmg distance call(calltype«l) is being placed. If the

been capturwl, a determination is made as to whetha a ftret digits are '*Oir", an hucmational caU (call typc«2) is

time-out condition has occurred (^cp 376). If such a con- being placed. If (he first digits are "♦69", "1800", •^ISSS", or

dition has not occurred, the router 120 resumes detecting and some odier [neprogrammed special preOx. then the call is

collectmg DTMF signals (step 319). If a time-out caidition classified imder the '"other" category (call type»3). Most of

is sense in step 376. the reJays are released (step 377) and the » the remaining calls are local calls (call typcpO). The type of

router 120 waits for an on hook conditiQa (step 378) \^ch call is detenuined in st^ 418-426.

restarts monitoring of tiie phone line (steps 305-310). hi step 428, a dctermmatioa is made as to ^etha a

^ , ^. « It «i • n tim&>out oondiion has occurred. As described above, if the

«f^Jf^J^,Sf )^^SS^S^^^^„S^M » P^l«> o«urs) within (be panimeten of fee poiling pio-

offte numbers have been afmA («ep 3«). nute WO ^ ^ the Hne l» released (i.e., user

d«as aieaccess "«»5«<«:f'''^,fSP$S('^ ^ roXde world andheais the time out message).

^S^S^ Mof^^^^^'tS^ cheeks to see if the WMF (figit count is feU (step 436). If

relays are then releasod (step 360), lecoonocting tne teie- j. a.ii <h. rnZmo tn aten iitt and awaits

phone UO to the ootside worid aUowiag communication to " « 't»°i,5?L??r£l Snto^lO

ooo^An endcf caU conditiDn is then momtoied {steps 36S ^3SLT?.^ v ^f^t™Lti™ i,

ind370)tipon whichttienMiter 120«tamstomonitoringof ""t^"^,?"? ''.^^n?

th»nwwr«i««'«K-«m astowhcflierihecallB8localcan(caUtype^)(stcp438),

''In'^cLT^f i;hen the telephone user is „

accessingitsdialaiDBndserviceftomhome.ftraccessoodc " ^^^^^.'^f^^'^.Vl^^.^^l^^

maynotbcrequiiwlbythfidisccnintlongdistaneecamer.b J]!?^*^^^!!?^? ^

tho» cases, teaoce^codeisnotpm^^lheapptopriale DBffs of. duded telephone number as descnbedm detail

iiumbcr and code may be, in one embodimeBt, chosen ftom «™]*; , „ .v • i'>^<«s.i.,«,o

a phmlityofsuchmkbers and codes in accordance with a "^''«"=»^A'^"=^'^vL"f'^!f^

p^««nined protocol. Forcxampte.so«wa»may enable " ^^^^^T^ "^^^J^^

{outer m to Soose a cat^lScss numbeifexle when «3«scd (step 442). «^jfj^ » ^.^T^r^^

such nmnher/code is the most cost-«ffldeat b anotte '^^^^'j^i^^^ff^J^ "^^2?^^,^

dnbodinjent, the stored access numbers/codes may be uti- ««» ^ '•'55il^,T*^-'''^-^f^„^^?n

lizedonaiolatingbasUsothatlhesabsaibinglongdistance „ ai? released (step 442). Ifftec^ is an mtonationala^^^

tompaniescanbenefitequallyfixaniBcof its service while " micioprocessw 124 «tals the m^

thecusiomercoiitmnestorBcognizesavingsassociatedwilh number "Med (step 44^and tto re^ys J30 m

ttie discounted services. ntosed(stq) 442). Fmally.ifflie call bemg placed is not a

■■ Again, to should be noted that router 120 may be leooD- '°»5di»la|ce or Wenatiomd^

figutedsuchthalaayindividualorseriesofdigitsandtoaiiy „ ?»"??'«^«"""»«^«'^. f^^- '^'^

p^eunnined positioning of such digits may trigger the « «>8ly. the nnc«?processor 124 dais the captured numbers

discouBtlanedislancecaUplacingpioeess.Ffflrotamide,the and the rdays are released.

router 120 may be piogrammed such tot if the DIME TteiAonelineisttKnmomtwedftirtheendoftte^

encoder/decoder chip 12$ of router 120 senses that the first (step 432). Once flie call has ended the ptocess returns to the

Unee numba are "Oil" (or first four numbers are "9011" ^ beginning (step 402).

where is recpmedfijr an outside line), then an interna- Media Reowdii^ Access and Control Process

tlonal call is b^ made. Accordingly, router 120 may be pjo.j illustrates an anbodiment of the present invenliai

wogrammedwitti the appropriate discomtt international can ft, ^xissing and controlling a recording device situated in

kccess numbers in order to aRdy discounted rates to these jranote location. TliesepDcesses are accomplished by BA

Mils as well. Once flie pcdetemuned senang 18 acecMi- ^ n^ndA and is described below with reference to FIGS.

plished. the ^scount long distance caUpIacii«iHOcess may 2Aand6.n»eEAtOHtal20AnionitorsatriqflKHje line for

be efibetnated. activity, detecu wheBier a potential activity on ttie jiaae

Wsoount Long Diiianoe/hileinational Call Dialii^ ftocess line allows facomingfau4ructions,c^jtures such instructions

FIGS. 3A and 3Billnaia1e an embodiment of tiie present and tiansnAs them to an intended device,

favention for primarily making long (fiSanoe calls recog- « As describe below, the BA router 12 IJA is aWe to recdve

nizing that the process may inchide dialiog international and a string oflXlMF tones and ttuislate it into a series of digits,
local calls. The iBOcess described with respect to FKJS.4A The received string of digits contains coded instructioiis for

Page 26 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

13

14

10

30

the £A router IZOA. Tbe imtructkms teQ ^BAnnster t20A
how to gttjmte signals 4at access and pmpcarly set &e
recoiding device to reconl a desired progranL Hie user can
coaununicate with thear EA rooter llOAby keymg inDTMF
tones, supplying information over the interna or by voice
commands over telephone to a cential she. The central site
converts tt» user's instructicms into DTMF tone and ton**
mits mm to the user's EArout» 120A. Hie EAnniter UOA
may communicate with the user^s recording device via a
vari^ of methods sudi as Ught wave (in&ftred light) or
electronic sipals (anatog or digital skoals).

In one embodiment, ^example, a request may be {daced
o©a Sunday, to record a program that is aired at 9:30 ?M on
channel 7 Smulay night At the central ate, where the request
is togged in, the uscr^s aie is located and chedad fbr
validity. If valid, the user's EA router ^xess code, and
modd number inJbmtatioa are retrieved fiom the user^s
record. Ilns infonimtiaai is tised to gerterate a cunaer^
that en^des the conunand instructions that are required to
e^ectuate the recording. Since each manu&cturer n^y use
^nerent remote control codbs^ises for a ^ven digit or
conunand, each must register the type* brand* and
ni^dd of ti^ recoidisg device in order to ensure that the
EA router 12aA can toctioo property. Itou«^
Toshiba VCMs, fbr exan^le, may be encoded to siart record-
ing with a 1 23 cycle (c.p.s.) of duration 20 ms, 210 cps. fbr
15 ms, and 30 cp.s, for 50 ms, reflectively, ia tibis embodfi-
m^t, pulses ref^ to the number of in^;mise (iight^electrical)
to be generaUMi in one second. t2us diiS^mice in cornmand
coding inalxs it tecessary for each user to n^ister ^ inake
&xid mode! of thdr recording device.

Id one emibodtmentt the cexuhal site validates the usor^s
identity and collects information reiEardlng the |m>gram the
userwantstoreoonl:d3yoffecoiding,tancoftfieificording,
channel ftom which to record tin© program. The central site
then general a ^rir^ of DIMF tones tSiat encoder the
i£5er*$ access code, diamrel firom wMch the recoidisig is to
be mad^, the commands to activate the VCR, ttie commands
for rewinding tl^ tape, and ^ conmiands fbr start reccml-

EA router HOA, in das €mbo<&BtCBt, recognizes ^t ttt^
central site s«als a string of DTMF tones in a jMcdrtennined
ftmnat TMs allows the EA router 120A to conwrt the
c^tured DIMF tone seq^aice into a nimericstiitsg that ca^
be segmented into both remote contra I c^intnim d codes atid
access cod©. The access codes allows the BAzouter laOA
to recognize that tte in^rucrions come fiom an aufeari2»d
VCR user. The coiranand coctes allows &c EAiouJ^ UOA
to turn on the VCR, rewind the tape in &e VCR. select ^
dtanoel to record ami then start reoordti^.

fa this embodiment, the oeaitral site semis tb& code out
anywhctTB fiom 5 to 1 0 minutes before fl» desired recording
time. This reduces the joze and amount of oodiixg req[uifed
be saa. In anote embodimcat, tiw sltirig of DIMF tones
sent to the BA router UOA contains codii^ information for
fleeting date and time, hi otber embodiments, the c^itml
site may allow intoacticm with the u^*s device diiectiy.

In one embodiment the instruction con^nents may
consist of two dements: numbcn: of pulses ml durstton of
pulses. Bach oomponait may ^ipear in a fixed positbn in
the strirjg and occtq>ics a set mmiber of spaces. If afl the
spaces are not requked, foe unoeeded portion may be filled
with 2ero(s) (ag.. 0020 is 20 ms).

& one anbodimeot, the password may be the Orst (9) nine
digits of foe decoded DTMF tone numeric strict The access

code and the '"Eal Of Data Fl^** (#) components of the
transmitted string of DTMF tones m^ not need a duraticm
aspect

The BA router 1 20 A recdves the number of pulses and the
durstion of a pulse in order to ]»0{^ly mimic a remote
control device, histtnctions may be transmitted foom the
central site in the fonn of code bloda. Bach code block <CB)
may consist of two distinct aspects: number of pulses and
(hnation per pulse (in milliseconds (ms)).

In a CB» for cxamplfe, the day of the wedc for which the
recording is to be made is denoted by a single numeric
character Sunday, foe forst day of the week is *'r' and
Saturday, the la^ of foe week is a '7*^ A '*0" can be used
15 to indicate foat foe recordi^ is to be made on the same day
as foe exmy into foe cec^l sate. The central site may indicate
to foe EA router 120A how the instruction codes are to be
generated: as xnonotone or as dual toi^ (DTMF). If the code
is to be goierated m mcmo-tooal nianner, 0^
^ indicate this wifo a "1" and a dual tone may be indicatod
wifo a Further, foe central site may t^ a 24 hours
systaoithne system, m^ch mid-night is OCMX) ami I pm is
ISOO. The central site may indicate the channd that is to be
rB(»m!edasa(hreedlgitmmibQr:allowing&rarangeof001
^ to 999.

The following are tables of codes that may be used in
accordance wifo one embodiment

Code Key Xnuuletion

the rtconSng s to be mada oa tb« ume (toy 09
the eatjy i» sttde into tha oositrfll «ft9
ReeofdiQg; if to be mtfdft on Sund«y
Reconltt^ b to be mftde m Monday
Raecrdit^ b to bo ma6e on ttmSty
RDeotdmg i» to be msde on WnteMdsy
IbBcttttfflQg t& to bo made on tbursdsy
Reconlmg t» to bo tnede on Friday
focordiojgi «i to bo nuide on Seturdsy
Miotuxcfts} «ode g6tt«r»&m fonnsi, {nstracttoo
code& 1^ controlHog tho reoordmg device may be
gonersted by the EA router combining tht aittrtbcr
of in^Rtteeseode durettonof die uopolses.
Out! toftst code generation fonntf , batntction
Mdet fbf comroUiaa ^ recording device nuy bo
geaersted fay eombtnisg two difibrent toon to
geotretfl • umq^ new toae (Dn4F).
The start of the day at xnidatsitt

35

0000

i

1200
I

1^
t

2m
I

001

I

m

ABCt>

EFQK

FQRS
TDVW

One in tfie sfierooon

Qoe onnute before midoiaht

The chsuEtel e«n rea$e fiom I to 999^ (tend 7
MOOT.

tStfi maSm of cycles per ««eotid to m«Sruc( the

leconj^g det^ce to tum aa!U

The duntion of wht^ the pulses should bo

tmmiitted to taime the r etxvdtng devico.

Both ASCD Sc. IBFQH may be fcqiiire to mirotc the

lEcmoEe cotttrot «<tivattoa of the reoordbg

device.

The utimber of cyciea per aeoood to K«truct the
fteordkg device to alert lecordtng.
The dontioD of whi^ the pulses should be
trerum^xed to stert leconfmg.

65

Both PQRS & TUVW may be required to mimic tl«
Remote control device to start recoxdmg instroctum. The

Page 27 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

15

16

cycle duration of both msiructions (activate and teooid) may
be the same or difiemut. depending of &e recofding ^vice
manu&cture.

In one cmbodinwnt, the following string of DTMF tones
Etay l>e transmitted to the EA router 120A. Hie position and
length of each compcment of the emMXled instructions to to
recording (tevice is preset, allowing to EA router 120A to
easily convert the central site transmitted data stzii^ into an
access code, insuwrdons codes that mimic the recording
device remote control nnit, aid a termination fbg.

123456789DFTnT 9999 m% ABCD EFGH ANMY
RETW PQRS TUVW #

123456789012130 0134 0020 0020 0050 0170 00200150
0020 #

hi one embodiment* the above numoic string of d$its
may be converted into a string of DTMF tones. A DTNDP
tacodsT converts eadi (figit into a distinct DTMF tone. The
DTMF tone is transmitted to tte £A router 12QA. The EA
router 120A then converts the DTMF tones back into digits
that can be translated into instrucd^ms, access code sn&r-
mation and an end of data flag.

POSrnON TAKJB

POUtlOtt

I234567SP

Access Cbde

(\-^

D

Bay ^Steccrdmg

(10)

F

Foermai To Use la Oteotbig Oontrot Codes

on

TTTT

Tnnnc Of Day lb Start R£«»lisg

(13-15)

9999

T^utnber Of Pubes In Channel S^ect Catnmand

(t6-I&)

sssa

Duntiem Of The Chsnnel Comnuod

(30-23)

ABCD

number Of Pulsc$ In VCR AcUvftte Ccmmaad

a7-3l)

EPGH

Duraiicm Of The Activate Command

(3J-^

AKMY

NuEobcr Of Pulse* la VCR Kcvind Cammand

(3«-39)

REIW

Durfitioa Of The R«<vtnd Commend

(4(M3)

PQRS

Number Of Pulies VCR R«cord CooBtund

(44-47)

TUVW

Durfttittn Of The EU»ard Oxcamaai

(4S-51)

If

Eftd Of D«U Fleg

Alwayt

CONTENT TAGDLB
1 2345tf7S90121300l34{>Q20002QCI0500n000300}30002W

123456789

Access Code

1234S07S9

0

Day Of Reccrdiag

Ibday

1

Mono Ibne Podrmat

Snglelbne

2130

Time Of Day lb Start Recording

^-^PM

0134

Number Of PuIao In Channel 7 Canunand

134puUe»

0070

Duration Of TbeCbaanelComffiaad

ZOtna

0020

Number Of Falsa In VCR Activate

20pultea

0050

Duntiott Of The Activate Command

50 ins

0170

Number Of PoUes VCR Rewind

170 puUea

Command

0020

Duration Of Tbe Rewind Conantnd

20tss

0150

Number C^Fulies Is VCR Record

ISOpultea

0020

Duration Of The Record Command

20 ms

tf

Eld Of Data Flag

As shown in FIG. 2A and explained above* the £A router
12QA may receive a string of DTMF tones firom the cennal
site and convert them into light signals that may be com-
municated to the recording device via the infrared emitter

10

15

192 (FIG. 2A) attadied to the stamp/micRK^ontroUer 124.
An £A router user may enter information about what pro-
grams are to be recorded via the intersfit, wht/wireiess
phone, etc.

In one embodhnent the string of DTMF tones that origi-
nate fiom the caitral site is generated in the Mowmg
The user, using the internet, for example, logs into
the ocrmal site web page and uses a graphical user interfece
to enter their usexname and password. The central site
clicks to ensure that the user is valid. AQ vahd users have
registered their EArouter 120A, the phone number to which
tl^ EAiouter 120Ais aUacbed, brand and model number of
their recording device.

In one embodiment ttie usa may enter the day of the week
fbr whkdi fhey want to record, the time o f day ihat they want
to stsrt recording and die channel dut they want to record.
The central site generates a string of DTMF tones that
encodes this information as shown in the tables above. In
OIK mbodiment, the iegistmdEArouter*s access code may
20 be attactKd to the beginning ofdie encoded informatton, and
the eixl of data flag may be attached to the end of the
aicoded informatioiL This allows the EA router 120A to
detennine if the mc^ming string of DTMF tones should be
accepted. The end of data flag tells the EA router UOA that
25 all ofihe sent M>nnation has been received, and that it can
now pfooeed widi process the string of DIMP mes.

In another embodiment, the £A router 120A user may
communicate the user {assword nan^, and fhe pertinmt
teocffding snfbrmation (day, ^">fi axKl diannei) fbr recording
a desired program via the i^one either by voice r^ponse
technology or by using the key{»d to respond to options
heard over Oie phone. Once the central site Im gathered all
of terw^paiied information, it generates a string of DTMF
tones that contains instmctions &r creating commands that
caus^ the us^ recording device to record a spcdiic pro-
gram.

The central site generates a string of DTMF tones tot
modes dns intonation as shown above, hi one embodi-
ment tltt registered BAxouter's access code is attached to the
40 beginning of the encoded inibnnation, and liie end of data
flag (#) is attached to the end of the eiK^oded information.
The access code albwsthe BAiout^ 120A to determine if
the captured string of DlW-tones should be dcosj^sd. The
end of data Sag tells the EA router 120A ^/hen the end of the
45 string ofDTMF tones is reached, and diat it can now begin
to ist>cess the string into code signals that will mimic a
remote coctol unit.

At step 610, a determination is made as to whether
tdqp^ione 110 isinan olT-hook condition If itis iu>t, then the
50 EA router 120A awaits such a condition. Once an off-hook
condition is established, the micnH^ntroUer/stamp 124 may
detennine u^ther an outgoing or incoming call is being
made (st«p 615). If the call being made is ongoing, the
system azuJ medtod proceed to 319 of FIG. 3A or st^ 408
of FIG. 4A (dqjending on the call type as described above).

The EA router 120A nsay (tetect an !mx)ming call in using
the me&od described above. When both an hicoming call
and o^-hook status are detected, the EA router 120A may
activate Relay 1 (Rl) and Relay 2 (R2). Activation ofRl and
R2 (st^ 620) in this embodhnent enables the HA router
1^ to dehwt any DTMF tones that nuy be transmitted on
the ii^mmg phone line (step 625).

If no DIMF tones axe detected on &e inooniing hne, the
s 3^em win continue to aw ait for such tones until die call i s
terminated. If a string of DTMF tones are detected on the
inccuning hne, tte system c^?tures the DTMF tones one by
one and converts them into digits using a DTMF decoder.

30

35

55

60

65

Page 28 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

17

18

15

Captured digits) are evaluated and then stored in an array
(stq) 655 and step 640). The process of mooitormg the
incoming line fbr DTMF tones oontmues until one of tiie
captured DTMF tones is a the cad of data flag (step
630).

the end of data flag is detected the system ston»
the flag (step 640) and to process the captured string
of DTMF-tones in the manner indicated above. Tht system
checks the first nine (9) digits to sec if they form a valid
access code: the access code specific to that BArouter i20A
(step 645). If this access code does not xnatdi the access code
stored ia the EA router llOA, the entire stored string of
digits is oased (step 650). After erasing die digits stored in
the array, the system awaits the end of the caU (step 655).

If the first nine digits matches the access code storad in the
EA router 120A, die system imtoccsscs the balaoBCC of fbt
string of digits in tlte above-indicated manner. Jn this
embodiment, the digits are converted into code signals that
are tiansmitted by infiared light to the lecording device. In
one embodiment file sequence of codes follows an order 20
that allows the cecoidiog device to know wliich channel to
record (step 660) and when to start xecoiding (step 665).
Aft^ the BArouter 120A has started the recoidi]^ |Hooess»
it erases the stor^ string of digits (step 675) and deactivates
Rl and R2 (step 670). The system then awaits tide end of file
call (step 655) before resettmg itself.

In fiiis embodiment, once tie string of digits is converted
into valid code signal fiiat tibe recording device recognizes,
the instruction codes are transmitted to tte recording device.
The transmission mode may be in the form of infiared liglht
impulses generated by the infiared ffiode/tmnsmitter
atUched 10 the EA router 1 20A (HO. 2A) and received by
iht recording device infiaied detector.

hi anotiier emtxxlimait, once the string of digits is con-
vened mto valid code signal that the rocordkg device
recogmzes, Uie instrucfion codes are transmitted to to
recording device. Hie tcananisstonmodeinay bein fi» fimn
a i^rect dectrical line between the two devices (EA-Ronter
and Recording Device). The instrucdons may go directly to
a micnaproccssor/miao-controllcr inside of recoitling
device. Hiis may obviate the need for an inflated light
sensor in fiie recording device, and pennit greater flexibility
in the control of the user's recording device.

Ill anofiici anbodhnent, the reccnding device remote
control may transmit instructions to fiie recorder in a dual
tone (DIMF) ftaaat Tbs transmitted sttinj of digits (CB)
sent from the central site may contaia an indoor tefiiog the
EA router 1 20 A fiiat the instruction codes are to be generated

by combining two distinct tones. Adual tone CB may consist
of paired tones ("A" and "B'') and may not have or need a
duration aspect. The syston then retrieves fiie digiu flnom fiie
tone stream (CB) andconvert them into a string of digits fiiat
may be used to create specific paired groups of tones. These
tones may be combined by file system to f<OTn BTMF signals
fiiat the recording devioe would recognize. These signals
may be transmitted to file recording device by infiared light
or electrical inqnilses over a wire. M this embodiment the
paired toiKS are indicate below as "A" and **B**» and wh«j
"A** and 'B** are combined, fiicy produce a unique byprod-
ud/signaL

33

40

45

POSmOK TABLE
1 234M78S4>FTm ABCD EFGH A^fMY RETV PQRS TliVW #

What It OottfCRt*

Position

123456789

Access Oodft

0-9)

D

Dsy Of Rcccrdiag

(10)

F

Format Tb Vta la Oreati&g Concrol Code*

on

TTTT

1!me Of Day lb Sten Recordlmg

0999

Pt]dsQS/tecORd (A) fa Channel Select

(16-19)

Command

8S88

PtdkCf/second (B) In OuniMl Select

(20-23)

ABCD

Pubea/second <A) fa VCSl Activdte

(Z7-31)

EfOH

CoQsaesd

PttUeiAecond (B) fa VCR Activate

(32-J5)

ContRtsnd

ANMY

Ptjbea/second (A) h VCR Rewiiui

(36^)

Contnuttid

RETW

Pnlsss^woond CB) fa VCR R«*tnd

(40-43)

PQRS

Putsn/second (A) fa VCR Rscotd

(44-^7)

Ooxnnifiod

TOVW

Pal»ea/wcoDd <B) fa VCR Record

(48-31)

BodOfDetiFlsg

Always iMt

CONTENT TABLE

Segment

Ccuiects

Whet It Cantains

12345«789

Aeceo Code

I234567S9

0

Day Of Reccrdmg

Tbdoy

1

Mono Tbne Fontiei

Sias^e Tbne

2130

Time OTDay Tb Start Recctdtng

9:30 PM

0134

Pubea^econd (A) In Cheaoel Select CcdutMad

134 puUet/iec.

0320

PulMH^wcond (B) fa Channel Select Comnumd

320 pulses/tec

0190

Putsei^ecctnd (A) fa VCR Activoto Commend

190 pulses^.

0150

Putsea/bccond (B) fa VCR Activftte Cdnaamd

150 puJ»es^ftec.

0I7O

PuMiecond (A) fa VCR Rewind Command

170 pulttec^sec.

0200

Putiei^ecQnd OB) fa VCR Rewind Cammond

200 putses^tec

0150

Putaet/^ecostd (A) fa VCR Record Commsnd

ISO put«es/aec.

OlSO

Putso^econd (B> to VCR Record Command

\SQ pxdscs^.

n

EndOfDttta FUg

0

Page 29 of 33

19

US 7,194,072 B2

20

10

IS

It should be noted that the example above describes
accessing a media recording device a user over a tele*
plione lim. jft should be noted that maiy other types of
communication networks may be used lodudiDg, but not
limited to* the internet, cable networlcs. wirel^ networics,
etc. Further, although exampte ^>ove describes an inda*
red emitter 1^ accessing a media recording device^ the
emitter 192 may be r^ced with another type of emitter
(Le., intoed« uitra-vioH lU^* etectrical mgja^, bhie tooth
technology) and the activated device may be any ckvioe that
can receive sudi a signal

It be apparent to time sidlled in tl^ art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the system and
processes of the ptcsesA invesiticHi witout departing Gxm
the spirit or scq)c of the invention. Thus, It is intended that
the present invention cover d^ modifications and variations
of this invention psovided they come withhi the scope of &e
appended claims ml their equivale&ts. fn this contact,
ecplvaients means each and every implementation fbt car*
ryii^ out tl^ fimctions recited in the dahns, even if not 20
explicitly described herein.

What is claimed is:

iv A method Ibr controHing one or more remote targeted
devices over a communicafion netwoik by accessing a
central conpiter, electing a specific taig^ device at a 25
F^note location, and entering instnicticm tttat wiM control
future behavior of said targeted devtee at said remote
location^ con^n^:
accessing a central computer using a plurality of remote

data entry points;
accessing a central computer using a ph2iality of remote

data entry nuxks;
a central cmnputer able to process and store mstructions
li^putted Ssom a plurality of data entry poiids;

30

d) a ceimal contputer able to transmit t!% process instruc'
tions to a device located at a specific remote site;

e) a device located at a remote site able to d^ennine
whether the im^nning tnshiictlom are au

used at said specif; remote site;

0 device able to transmitting any received instrnctions to
a targeted appliance; and

g) controlling the &hue behavior of the targeted a|^-
ances based on said instrudions.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:

a sm?er receiving IHMF tones ova said oonmiunication
network dom a remote mpot terminal; and

translating said ton^ into instructions and inlbnnaticm
tot is directed to a target remote site according to
input received by the coitral computer,

6. The method according to claim 5, finther con^ming:
a ceiml conpiter ana^zing the posiHon and nature of

0XMF tones to dec^her the in^rmation contained
within said ini4K

1 The tnethod according to ctaki 5 wheiein the DTMF
tones encoding infbimation are transmitted by a central
serverover a tdeoommumcationnetwotk to a site remote to
both tte server aM the remote data entry terminal

8. Tli^ me£tK)d according to claim 5 whendn the DTMF
tones encoding mfonnation are transmitted over the Ihtarnet
to a central server where infbimation and instructbns are
extracted and process before being passed on to a remote
tai]geted s^ whore said instructions wiU a^t the future
behavior of an s^liance.

9. Tbe method of c2^ 5« fhilhfsr comprislr^; a device at
the remote site conveardng said DTMF tones rK«i ved fh>m
the central ccmqmter into infiared light signals containing
instrucdcns ^t will oontroi tim behavior of the targeted

a central computer able to dctctminc if incoming iiisttuc- 35 ^PP^**«5^
tions are authcMfi2»d to be accc5^ ami forwarded to a lO.TI^m^bodof daim 5, furttercomjming:adevicc
specific remote location; the remote she cocverting said DIMF tones received

a central con^ter abte to forward instructions over a ^ central confer into audio signals containing

ccmumimcation systean to a chosen tcm^ locatian Jas*3c«c*wos that will contrd the behavior of the targeted
where said instructions wiH be relayed to a targeted 40 aw>3^ia2cc.

device; said targeted device accej^ mstnwtions ttatt method of daim 5, fijrther conpising: the device

will control said device feture bdiavior. ^ leoKrtc site converting said DTMF tcmes r«:!dved

2. The method of claim 1, fiirfher comprising: ?^ ^? central computer into electrical signals containii^

a oeatral ccmputer receiving one <ff moie DTMF t<mes histnatiom that are conveyed 1^ cable to the target appli-
over said cotmnunkatton netw<^ and 4j ?^ wherein said Instructions will control the ^liture

tr ansl a ting said tones into said instrucdcos that can affbd
the future behavior of a sped^ device locaW at a
temote location.

3. The method according to daim X ihrther comprising:

behavior of the targeted ai^Oianoe.

12. A$ystem ^ controllir^ a f^i£^ly targeted appli-
ance at a remote locati<m usiitg information ottered ^onx a
remote input terminal to a central computer that relay the

a central compu^ detensimng what information is 50 itistiuctixHis to a target device via a oomnutnication net-
encoded within a string of DTMF tones by ana^yang work, coapisiii^:

order in which DIMF tx»3^ are recdved; and ^ means for central computer to monitor tear incoming

generating instructbnal coding that conrespoods to the c omnn i nicat fon tm a phn^ of remote input tesm-

detected sequence of DTMF tones. nals diat are linked to said computer via a connnuni-

4. A method for controlling the fi^e tmhavior one or 55 cation i^twoxk;

more remotely located appliances at a remote dte using
instruction communicated over a communication network
ttom a remote input terminal, comprisu:^;

a) monitoring a communication network linked of a
cexural computer to detect incoming instmctic^ fiom 60
a remote data entry tenniEtal;

b) deteaminLng whcdicr communication between a central
computer and a remote site is established to transmit
instructions to a device located at said remote site;

c) a central computer for storing, processing, and tians* 65
mindng instnotions received trcm a remote data entry
terminal;

a means fox determining whether said incc»ning commu-
nication contains valid instructional information;
a means for pnDces^, storing, and forwarcling said
instructional information 6om the central counter to
a ^vice at a targeted remote location;
a ntean for die device at the leoKJte location to det^mine
whether any moomlztg infbnna^on over a communica-
tion network is authorized to be acoqpted as valid bs^
proper,

a means for the instructional htfoxmation received by ttie
^vke at the remote location being coirvi^Fed to said
targeted appliance; axKt

Page 30 of 33

US 7,194,072 B2

21

22

10

15

20

controlling said ^Hasce iutore bdbiaviar mag the
ittstructicfas received fiom tbe remote input tenoioal.

13. The system of daim 12* fiutber coursing:
a means for tbe central conqmter to receive DTMF tcmes

encoded instructions over a communication netwotk;
a means for he remotely bcaied device to receive insfruc-

tional information in the form of DTMF tcm^ over said

communication network; and
a means for translating said ton^ into instructions that

will control a targeted alliance future tteiiavior.

14. The syst»n according to claim 12, Ibrtiier compdmng :
am£ans6>ranalydngth6positio3i ofescb DTMF tone in

3 stni^ of IxmP tofflss to detarmixK what iolbmatto
is encoded in the string; and
a means for translating said information inio instructions
that will control a specific api^ance at a remote loca-
tion,

15. A system for con^Uing one or more remoteiy tar-
g^ed appliance by transmitting instructional informatbn
receis^ Ihmi a reaiote terminal ova a oomnnmication
system, aunprijong;

a means for a central server to collet informatioa &om a

plurality of remote Irpit points linked to said server via

a conununkatioti system;
a means monitoring a commuiucation system for

activity between a server at a central location and a

nsmote input tmniml;
a means for detemmuQg whether a device at a targeted

remote location can (tetect incmning instructions over

die communication s^^tem;
a means for determinins whmher foe remote device is

authoriasedto allow accqjtanoe of iipit from tte server,
a means for transmitting incoming insttuetionai infonna*

tion to a targeted device when recej^a of iacomii^

instructions is enabled;
a means for transmitting said instrucdons fiom said

device to a targeted appliance; and
a means for controlling said aiq[>iia2K:e foture be^vior

based on said tnstrucdons.

16. The system of daim IS, fitrfher con^Hi^Qg:
a means for said targeted device to receive one or more

DTMF tones over said communication system; and
a means for translating any received DTMF toi»s into
iiBtru^<ms that win control the bdtavic»^ a target 45
appliance located at the remote location.

17. Tbe system according to claim 16. foito
a means for detemiimng what infoormation is enco(ted mto

a seq^ienoe of DTMF tones l>y analyzmg ORter ini^di
the tones are arranged; aiKl m«ms for translating said so
information into an access code, taig^ed ap^tecc
k^:ation ictentify, and ins&ructions to be used Iry the
server to in affecting the bdia^<^ of said targeted
ai^liance at tbt remote locatioa
IS. Ibe syston according to daim I6» wherein t&e ss
DTMF-toses are tranamtted via a omununicatton system to
a central server torn a remote Input terminal and toti the
central server to the targeted device at a rcnwte location.

19. Tt3» system accoantog m cJaim 16, wherein said
DTMF-toses are transmitted via foe Tskxnet to a central 60
server fiom a remote Input terminal and fiom foe central
server to the targeted device at a remote locatkm.

20. The s:^tem of daim 16, fordier cofflprisiijg:
a means for said device to convert said DTMF-tones into

Bhietooth Technology signals containing said insfiiiC' 63
tions that will aflTea tt^ fixture behavior of a targeted

21. 1\» sy^em of claim 15» forther comprising:
a means for said device to convert said DTMF- tones into
audio signals containmg said instructions that will
affect tbe foture behavior of a targeted appliance.

22. The system of daim 1S« forther comprising:
a means for said device to conv»t saidDTMF-tones into

dectrical pulses containing said instructions foat will
zBxt the future bdiavior of a targeted appliance.

23. A^ystem £i:ar controlling a remotely located appliance
1^ relaying instructions fiom a remote input tmnlnal to a
desdce over a communication sy^em» coznprish^:

a device "with a processor at a remote location configured
for momtimng a communication system forr incoming
activity 0om a central computer;
a device forther configured for determining wl^er
incoming activity in a form of DTMF-tones over the
oonunutticatmn system shouki be accept by said
devk^

a central computer having memory for storing Incoming

instructions fonn a remote input tarminal;
a devke at tl^ remote location able to monifor the
incoming acti^ m the comnrunication system for the
existence of a signal that enables the central computer
forwarded instrucdcms to be accepted as being autho-
fiaed;

a devnx at the rraoote k)catiott able to tmnsmit received
histructions to saide^pplimioe; and said mstn^tions are
able to control Uie foture bdiavbr of foe appliance.

24. The ^stem of daim 23, forther ooo^^r^;
a device contaimng a decoder conilgured for translating

DTMF tones into instracli<»is by genemting signals
that the targeted appliance will recognize as valid
incoming instnKtion code.

25. Tbe system ^:cordisg to claim 13, wherein a device
is further configured for analyzing tbe position of a DTMF
tone in a string of DTMF tones to detmsine what inftunm*
tion is eiKioded in said strir^; and

translating the string of DTMF tones into instructions.

26. A system for controlling one ot mete remote ^liance
40 with instrocticms cognmuaicataed over a oommunic^tioa net-

work foom a h^t tennmal remote to a central computer,
corr^Hrislug:

a device wifo a jffocessor boated at a remote bcation
configured to monitor a communicalion network for
im^oming instructions foom a central computer,
a plurality of remote in|»rt terminals configured to trans*
mit informatioa to a central computer via a communi-
cation network;
a ceatralconpiter configured to recd^ information fiom
a plurality of reim^e inpit tenninals via a communi-
cation network;
a central conqnder with memory oonSgmed for process-
ing and storing info^rmation received fiom a remote
input terminal;
a central con^nrter configured to detenoaine whether a
valid passwoni, taig^ location, and instructions are
contair^ in the infomoiaiion receK-ed fiom a remote
input tenninal;
a c^ttral computer able to send said instrucdons to a

tange^ed bca^ u^ a communtotion network;
a do^ witb a processor k)cated at a remote locatbn able
to receive instructions over said network fiom said
central oosqnto and able to transmit tbe received
instructions to a targeted ^fiance at said remote
location; and

control said ^>pliance fixture behavior wifo said instruc-
tions.

3&

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2r Tbc system of claim 26» fiather comprising:
a processor wiQm &c device it a remote location con-
dgured 6>r transmitting received electrical pulses that
corntaining instructions to tbe targeted appliance.

28. The system aoccrding to dalm 26* wheresn tnfbnxut'
tion is encoded in electrical pulses tran^oitted to a central
server over a communication netv^otk finom a remote input
&srminal>

29. The system according to claim 27. wtoein the said
ekKtrica) pol^ are tmnsmitted via the ^temet fiom a
remote input tenninal to a central server.

30. The system of claim 27, wherein tb& device with a
processor is tsribsr con%ured fi>r converting said etectikal
pulses Into Bhietooih Technology signals that encode &e
instructions that originated dom the remote input terminal

31. The systsm of claim 26, wherem the device with a
processor is fbrtl^ configured for convertmg said electrical
pulses into audio signals that encode the Instructkns that
onginated ^m the remote input termmal

32. The system of daim 26, whemn tto device with a 20
poc^sor at the remote location is Birther configmed for
convertirig rec(»ved instmctions into etectiical pulses that
are commumcaM to a micpc3|m>cessor located in a targeted
appliam^ via a cable.

33. The system of claim 27, wherein the piY>cessorwil!nn 25
ihe taigeted appliance is tother configured fbr psoccssi^g
ele<^cal pulses that encode instructions that were f6r-
warded &otn a central coo^^tter and said instromions will
afito fyture behavior of said aj^hance.

34. The system accordit^ to daim 26« wherein the pro-
cessor ata remote location is farther configured to decoding
instructions from a string of DTIvfF tcmes by analyzing
order in which ton© are arranged in a string; and sdd
pnxessor is ftoftoer configured foxtraiianitting the decoded
instmctaotts to a targeted device.

35. Tl^ system of claim JX, wherein me dectrical pulses
containing said incoming iixstructions are transmitted ftom
the device to a micioprooessor located in the remote device.

36. Tht system according to claim 26» wberem the pro*
C(^sor at a remote location is further configurad £br (^coding
instnKtions fttm a string of I>lMFtm:^ by analyz^
in which the tones are arrat^ed in the string* and said
processor is fuillu^ configured fbr transmittii^ ^ decoded
instn^ticttis to a targeted device.

37. A computer readable medtimi having computer 45
executable software code stored thereon, &e code fisr cor^
trolling at least one remote device over a communication
systatn, con^sising;

code &r o^abling a rsnotdy located computer to monitor
a communication system ^ activity;

code £br enabling a computer to ffetgm^^ ^odiether an
incoming activi^ fiioda an ii^mt terminal contains
instructions t)r contioning a device at a remote loca-
tion;

code fbr enabling a remotdy located processor to accept
incomii^ instructions &<m a cennputer,

code for enabling a remotd^ located process^ to deter-
mine whed^ incomii^ instructions over a communi*
cation system are authmized to be relayed to a device
at a remote locatbn;

code ^ storing incoming instructions wira acth^ on
the communication system enables recei^ion of incom-
ing instructions;

code for oiablh^ a remotdy located piocessor to umisnit
said incoming instructions to said device; and

code for controlhng said device ba^ m said mixw-
tions.

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$5

«9

38. A mcahod fbr controlling future bdja\nor of least one
remotely located device via a communication system, com-
prishi^:

a server able to monitor a communication system for
activity for iiroming in^nmation containing an ^xsess
code, remote location id, and instructions;
detemuning whether the incoming !n£brmati0n Is autho-
rized to be acc^^ liy the serv^,
processhtg and storintg said tiK»ming information when
said ec&^nfy on the oommumcadon system contaii^ a
signal indicating ttsat the incoming mfbrmation should
be iSY)ce$s and forwarded to a remote device; and
controlling die bdjavior of said dev«?e with the instruc-
tions recdved fiom the server.

39. A system Ibr controlling tl» fbture behavior of at least
one remotely located appliance^ comprising:

a means fi^r a server to monitc»r a oomnmnication sy^em

&r m^innation fitun a wmtc iapiA terminal;
a means fbr detecting whether adivity on the communi*
cation system contains coding a^rfhariring xtceptkm o f
any incotnmg information;
a means fbr directing information stored on a servar to a
remote locatson according to direcdon recdved from a
remote input terminal; and
a means &r transmitting Information that wiD affect the
future bdmvior of a targeted device.

40. A system ft>f coatroUii^ be^vior of an aj^liance
using a communicatifm systm to transmit time ddayed
instmctions recdved &om a remote ir^t device; compris*

30 tng:

a central server c(mtaintng executable software code
stored fbr monitoring a communication network for
activity incoming from a plurality of remote ir^ut
temiinals;

a central ^rver contaida^ code for storing and validating
and isoc^sing Incoming instructions recdved over a
oommunicatbn network fiom a remote input device;
a cei^ servcar contabing code fbr detern^ming
instnKTdons forwarded torn said server over a com-
munication network are authorized to be acceiyted at a
ronote loca&n;
a device at a remote location able to accept tnstruOions
forwarded ttm said server and transmit said instroo-
ticms to a targeted appliance; and
affect tite behavior of the ^plte» with said InstrucUons.

41. A system fbr afibcting behavior of a remotely located
appliance using a oommmucation systm to transmit time
delayed mstrtK:lim)ts recdved ftom a remote input device,
con^ffi^ng:

a means fbr monitoring a communicatiaa system for

incommg instn^ttom trcm a remote ir^^ut terming
a means for ^tenidning v^iether tncoming instructions
are aoccmipai^ by a valid authorizing password for
controlling a taigetod device at a remoto location;
a means 6nr enabling reception of any incoming instruct

dons fiom a centml oon^puter;
a means for storing said incoming instrucdcms when
auttoization received over the communication system
enables rmption of incoming instmctions; and
a means for transmitting said incoming instructions to
said remote appliance.

42. A conptfor readable medium having computer
executa|}le software code stored thereon, the code for con*
trolhhg at least one remote (tevice over a communication
system, oonqmsing:

code for enat^ing a r»notoly located computer to morutor
a oQmmonicatbn system for activity;

35

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code for enabling a oompttter to detcnnine ^s^lctber an
incoming call from an input terminal cootains mstnio-
tioas for controlling a device at a remote location;

code for (mbling a temotely located processor to accqit
incoming instructions from a compiiter,

code for enabling a remotely located processor to deter-
mine whether incoming instructiotss over a conmsuni-
cation system are aTithorized to be relayed to a device
at a remote location;

code for storing inc<Miung instructions whoi activity on
tbe communication system enables reception of income
ing instmctions;

code for CTabiing a remotely located proocssorto transmit
said incoming instructions to said dcvke; and

code for controlling said device based on said instnao-
tions.

43. A rcmotdy located serverprogiammed &r controUmg
a remotely located appliance by tran^ttitting instructions
over a communication system^ comiBising:

a central computer accessible to a pluiaKly of remote 20
input tenninals via a communication system;

a central computer able to store aiui process m toiation
received from a plurality of remote input tcnniaals;

a central computer able to response to recdved inftmna-
tion from each remote input terminal by directing
output to a specific remote bcatkm conesponding to
the recdved information;

a centml computer able to response to received infonna-
tion from each remote mp^^t terminal by directing an
access coded and instructions to a ^edfic remote
location corrc^nding to titie received infbnnation;

a device at the remote location is aWe to accept instruct
tions xeceived over a communication netwoik once a
valid access code is deleted;

a device able to transmit recdved instructions to an
appliance and effect said appliaMe behavior.

44. Aremote input device able to relay instructions to a
taig^ed device at remote location by transmitting instruc-
tions and an access co^ over a communication system to a
server and said server re-ttansmitttng the access code and 40
instmctions to an appliance at a remote location* compris-
ing:

an it^t tenninal able to transmit instructions and an

access code over a communication syslem to a server

for processing;
a server able to monitor a communication system for

incoming infr^rmation from a letoote issp&t terminal;
a server able to detennine wtyetiier a received input from

the mput terminal sibould be accepted, proess aiul

stcnred in memory fbr future forwarding to a previo^

added location;
a server able to forward fee process infOToation ova: frie

communication system to a specific remote location;
a device at the remote location aWe to check foravalid

access code before accepting fee in&imation for- 55

warded fiom fee server to the remote location;
a device able to transmit information received fromi fee

server to a tai^^ed appliance at the remote bcati<m;
and afEbct the fixture behavior of said aiypliance.

45. A mefeod for controlling at least one remote device
over a communotion syston, comprising:

monitoring a conmiuiucation system for activi^; detect-
ing whefeer an ongoing call is being made;

determining whefeer activity on the communication sys-
tem contains instructions;

storing incoming mstructJons when activity on the com-
munication system contains a ^gnal indicating that fee

incoming instructions are authorized to be iKOCCSs and
forwarded to a remote device; and
comiollmg b^viar of a targeted appliance wife the
mstractions the remote device received and relayed to
said appliance,
46 Amefeod for controlling ftiture bdiavior of a remot^y
located appliance by transmitting instructions over a com-
munication system using a cenn^ computer and a plurality
ofreoKne input terminals, comprising:
monitoring a communication system for activity; deter-
mining whefeer the communicatiott systaaa is able to
relay instruc^ns from a remote terminal to a central
computeTt ,
deteiminnig whether an incoming call is made frwn the
central computer that is transmitting instruction to a
remote location;
detOTiining whether activity on fee oommumcauon sys-
tem contains a vaM password that will enable recep-
tumofaj^ iiKXjming instructions;
storing said incoaaiing instructions when \^d aufeonza-
tion password enaWes reception of mcoming instruc-
tioDs;

tTOTigmitring said incoming instructiocs to said device;

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30

60

63

conliolling said device based on said instructioiis.
47 Aremote input device able to rd^ instructions to a
targeted device at remote locaticm by ttansmittii^ instnic-
ticms and access codes over the mtemet to a server and said
server le-transmiiti!^ the access code and UKtructions to an
appliance at a remote location, comprising:
an ii^ taminal able to transmit instrucdons and an
access code over a communication system to a server
forprocessing; , . ^

a server able to monitor the Mem^ for incommg mlor-

mation from a remote h^ terminal;
a server able to detennine whetbM- recdvod input ^^nifee
imnit terminal i^uld be acoqjtod. process and stored
in memory for fbture forwarding to a previously added

location;

a server able to forward tl» process information over the

hitcmet to a specific remote location;
a device at fee ranotc location able to chcdc for a valid

access code before accepting fee information for-
~ waitted from fee saver to the remote location;
a device able to transmit informatk)n received from the

server to a targeted appliance at fee ranote location;
and afifect foture beiisvior of said appliance,

48. A device able to affect ftiture behavior a targeted
appliance at a rranote location by enabling fee reoei^n 0 f
instnictian from a remote ispil taminal, comprising:

a means for a server to monitor a communication systoi
for activity incomii^ txm a remote iqput terminal;

a means for a server to determine whether activity incom-
ing over a communication sy stem from a remote input
terminal contains information should be process and

stored; ;
a means frff a server store ai^ incoming inforinatwn from

a remotely located terminal when it contains an access

code, a remote locati<Mi identifier, and instructions;

a means fi«r the server to transit the information ova a

c(mmiunication system to a targeted remote location;

a means for the transmitted infonnatica to be convey to a

selected ^^)liance at the remote location; and

controlling said appliance behavior wife said instrocdons.

49. Amethodftff controlling frdarebdiaviorofaronotely
located appliance by transmittiag instructions over a com-

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28

munication system usipg a central oon^3uter and a piorality
of remote tqininals, oomprisisg:

a meaxss for a server to monitor a communication system
^ iiicoming a<^vtty containing instructional snibnna"
tion and a valid access code;

a means fbt a server to pn^cess and store In&xmation
received over a conmmnication system;

a mms for a server to trsnsmit tbe process inlbimation
to a taxgmd appliance at a remote location; and

albct &e appliance behavior witb the transmitted infor-
mation.

50. A system for controlling at \6&sX one temcte ^]ianoe»
comprising:

a means to a server to monitor a ccmmimication system

&r incoming in£)nziatbn related to controlling an

appliance located at a mnK>te location:
a meatis for monitoring infonnation ii9>utted into a server

over a commmiication system &om a reme^ input

terminal;

a means determining whether the communication
system has establisl^ a connection betoreen die server
and a device at a remotely targeted location;

a means f<^ detiomining wl^fher fte remotely targeted
device attacl^ to the communication syst» is autho*
nzed to accept incoming inibrmation;

a means tyr a device at tilie remote locatioxL to transmit
received infi»mat2on as electrical in^nolses tbBt are
conducted to die taj^eted aj^f^ianoe via a connecdng
cable; and

controUii^ said appliance based on said mfonnadon.

51. A systms fisr ccmtroSing belsavior at teast one
remotely located appliance using a communication system,
compdsixig:

a means fbar a server to monitor a communjcatbn system

fbr incoming inlbrmation related to controlling an

spphaxiG& bcated at a remote location:
a means for momtonng information inputted into a $m»er

over a communication system item a remote ii^mt

terminal;

a means for determinii^ viteto tim oommmncation
systm has established a connection between die searver
and a device at a remotely tatgded location;

a means &r d^eiminii^ whether die remotdy targeted
device attached to the comxmnucation system is aulho-
rized to acc^ incaming information;

a means for a device at &e remote locatioa to transmit
received infbrmatbn as Bhietoodi Tbchnoli^ signals
to the targeted appliance; and

contxoUii^ said appliance based on said information.

to

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40

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53. A system for controlling fimne behavior one remotely
located appliai»:e using a communkation system, compris-
ing:

a means for monitoring a comimmicatiQn system fbr
ittccHning activity in the fbrm of an access code and
instnictions Sxm a pluialily of remote data injutt ter-
mhials;

a means Ibr the server to detemtine when to forward the

in&rmation received torn a remote input teminal;
a means fbr the server to establish contact witjh a targ^ed

remote location over the cotnmnmcation system;
a means fbx a server to detennine whether a device at a

remote location is able to accept infonnati<m;
a nteans for a device at a remote location to detenmniiig

whedl!er Cte fncoming infbrmation fit)m the server is

correctly taigeted &e n^note location;
a means &r the device at the remote locatioa to transmit

received infonnatzon to a targeted appliai»:e at said

remote location; and
for said information U> control future behavior of said

appliance.

53. A ^em fbr controlling a remotdy located ai^ance
with instructions forwarded ftom a remotely located input
temxinal, comprising the steps of.
a remot^ located input tearmiml able to traiisniit instruct

tions to a central server over a communication system;
a remote tocated server able to rBonitor a cotmection to

a communication system for incoming infosmaticm

&om a remote in^t tmninaU
a server able to determirm wMher the infonnation com-

mnnicated over a communication system should be

accepted by said server,
a server able to process and store infonnation received

over a communication syston and later transmit the

prooess infomatitm to a remote locaticn;
a serva able to detect a vaUd access oode, a remote

location identification, and ti^stnictions in liist infonna*

tion received team the remotely located ii^ tenmoal;
a remote location able to accei^ info(nnation tK>m a

remote server and determine wbeto said information

contains a val^l access code;
ability to ooitvey instn;^ns ftom said server to a tar-

getied ^liance; and control flmue behavior of said

appliance based on said instructtcms.